The Preakness Stakes winner Epicenter, a favorite of many on the Preakness Stakes racetracks, was defeated by early voting. This victory validated the decision not to run in the Kentucky Derby but to focus on the next leg of the Triple Crown.

The leader for most of the race was Early Voting, who stayed behind them until the end. Epicenter finished second, 1 1/4 lengths behind him.

After Rich Strike, Kentucky Derby winner, was not able to run the Preakness after his owner chose extra rest over winning the Triple Crown.

Chad Brown won the Preakness with Early Voting at 5-1. Klaravich Stables is also his owner, having won the race last year with Cloud Computing.

Jose Ortiz, jockey, won the Preakness in his first attempt. In four of his previous races, he had not finished better than fourth.

Early Voting was first out of nine horses. This included Secret Oath, filly and three that returned after the Kentucky Derby. Gun Runner’s son Early Voting was the winner of four races and took the $1.65million prize money.

Baldo Hernandez, assistant trainer said that this week “he had the time off.” He’s healthy.

He was strong enough to handle adverse weather conditions. Preakness 147 was held in record heat. The temperature reached the 90s when the horses arrived at the start gate.